Universal fence post base foot

Abstract

A universal base that is configured to be used with the posts of a perimeter fence. Wherein each base comprises a base plate (20) which is held in place by placing a suitable weight onto the plate, a securing arm (30) having a first end coupled to the base plate, and a second end configured to be coupled to the fence post, and a weight arm (40) with one end coupled to the base plate, which is configured to act as a back stop thereby preventing the weights from sliding off the base plate. Wherein the securing arm and weight arm are configured to pivot about the ends coupled to the base plate, such that the arms can move from a position parallel to the plate to a position perpendicular to the plate.

Description

[0001] Universal fence post base foot

[0002] Background

[0003] In the field of constructing fences, it is often necessary to construct fences over a large area over a range of different surface types. Such surfaces may include dirt, tarmac, paving stones, and even bricks. In some cases, these surfaces will need to be damaged to allow the posts of the fence to be embedded in the surface, for example by digging a hole so that a foundation can be formed below the post to hold the post in place. However, this may not be desirable as the process damages the surface.

[0004] Additionally, there are cases wherein the user requires a temporary fence. This may be the case when there is an event such as a concert wherein the fence will not be needed after the event, or when the fence is being used as a temporary measure until a more permanent barrier such as a perimeter wall can be constructed. In such cases, it is necessary to build the fence rapidly, additionally, the user will need to be able to move and remove the fence with ease. In these cases, it would also be preferable to construct the fence without damaging the surface beneath it.

[0005] To this end, the user may deploy the use of a foot that can be connected to the end of the fence post to anchor the post into place without the need to embed the post into the surface beneath the fence. However, such feet may not be suitable for all surfaces, especially on a surface that is not level, as such feet normally have a flat base and / or a ridged structure that would lean with the uneven surface. Therefore, there is a need for an improved foot design that can be used on a wide range of surfaces, wherein the foot is configured to keep the fence post vertical regardless of the profile of the surface below the foot.

[0006] Further, fences would require a high number of these feet. This means that a user would require a means to store and transport this plurality of bases. Therefore, it is preferable to provide an improved foot design that would allow a large number of these feet to be stored for transport more easily.

[0007] The background art includes WO 95 / 16842 and GB 2494916. Summary

[0008] The invention relates to the field of perimeter fences. More specifically, the claimed invention provides a base foot that is configured to be coupled to the bottom of a fence post, wherein the base foot provides a universal footing that can be coupled to a range of different fence posts, securing the posts to the ground. In particular, this base foot provides an easy means to deploy a fence onto a desired area without the need for specialized tools to dig the post into whatever surface the fence covers. This may be particularly useful in cases, where the user needs to erect a temporary fence which will eventually need to be removed, as these feet allow the fence to be constructed with little to no damage to the surface below the fence post. To secure these feet in place a weight is often affixed or otherwise coupled to the foot to hold it in place without the need to fasten the foot or the post to the ground.

[0009] One problem with such a system is that a fence may require many of these bases for the plurality of posts used within the fence. This means that the user will need to transport the feet and the attached weights long distances to the desired site for the fence. If the bases are heavy or particularly large then they may be hard and / or expensive to transport. In addition, some base foots and weights may not be easily staked meaning they may take up a large volume in transit. Therefore, there is a need for an improved base design that is suitable for supporting a fence post on different surfaces, while also being configured to be easily transported to and from the fence site on mass.

[0010] The claimed base foot comprises a base plate that is configured to provide a flat planar surface that acts as the base of the fence post, helping to secure the post into place and provide structural support to the fence it is coupled to. This plate features an elongated plate with detentions in at least one direction being larger than the diameter of the post, such that when the fence post is placed over the base plate, the plate extends beyond the edge of the post. This extending portion of the base is used to receive weights that will be used to hold the base foot in place and in turn secure the fence post in place. It is preferable that the base plate is shaped such that the elongated length of the plate extends in a direction perpendicular to the fence post that extends inwards relative to the perimeter of the fence. This way the weights used to secure the base plate will be positioned within the area protected by the fence, thereby reducing the risk of the weights being removed or otherwise tampered with.

[0011] In some cases, the base plate may also include one or more apertures configured to receive a fastener. Said fasteners can take any suitable form such as a nail, screw, or bolt, among others. In use these fasteners may be inserted through the base and the weights to secure the weights in place over the base plate, this again reduces the risk of the weights being removed or tampered with. In some cases, the fasteners may pass through the base into the surface below to help secure the base into place before attaching the fence post.

[0012] In some cases, the bottom side of the base plate, which in this case refers to the side of the plate in contact with the ground, may include a textured surface. The surface of the plate comprises a raised pattern design to increase the amount of friction between the plate and the surface of the ground, thereby allowing the plate to grip the surface of the ground more firmly reducing the risk of the plate sliding, especially when force is applied to the fence the foot is attached to or when the surface below the plate is smooth. It is noted that this patterned surface may comprise groves, ridges, or other shapes that raise out of the surface of the plate to increase friction with the ground, the preferred embodiment of this pattern would include a thread plate pattern that features alternating rows of diagonal thread to improve grip in all directions along the plane of the plate.

[0013] As mentioned, when in use, one or more weight is placed over the base plate to secure the plate in position, thereby removing the need to fasten the foot and / or the fence post directly to the surface under the fence, this removes the need for specialized tools and equipment to couple the fence post to the ground. In the preferred embodiment, these weights would be in the form of plastic housing that the user fills with water to provide the required mass to the weight. This way the numerous weights needed to form the fence will be relatively light during transit as they can be emptied of water after use. Making the transportation of the weights easier for the user. The user may also alter the total mass of each weight by adjusting the amount of water in the housing as smaller bases could be damaged by heavier weights.

[0014] The base may further comprise a stopping plate, wherein the stopping plate is configured to hold the fence post in a desired position above the plate before being secured into position. These stopping plates comprise a plate that raises vertically out of the plane of the base plate, proximate to the end of the base plate that faces outwards relative to the fence perimeter. In use the user would rest the fence post against the stopping plate, using the stopping plate to guide the post into a desired position above the base plate, and thus holding the post in the desired position while it is fastened into place. It is noted that these stopping plates may take different shapes depending on the profile of the fence post the user intends to couple to the base.

[0015] In some cases, the base place may include a plurality of such stopping plates such that the fence post may be gripped by a stopping plate on each side thereby holding the post more firmly and possibly allowing the post to free stand as the user fastens the post into place. In other cases, the base plate may incorporate multiple stopping plates, to allow a chosen post to be placed in different positions and / or orientations relative to the base plate. However, it may be preferable to use one or two plates with a round or otherwise curved surface such that the post may be pivoted relative to the base plate while still resting on the stopping plate.

[0016] The base foot further comprises a securing arm, wherein the securing arm is configured to extend vertically upwards, out of the plane of the base plate, and is also configured to be affixed to the fence post via a suitable fastener. Once the arm is fastened to the post, the arm will secure the fence post to the base plate. It is noted that the arm would be coupled to the base plate such that the arm can rotate around the end coupled to the base plate, wherein the securing arm is configured to pivot around the end coupled to the base plate so that the arm can move from a first position parallel to the base plate to a second position perpendicular to the base plate. The base plate and arm may further comprise apertures such that the user may pass a member or fastener through the aperture in the base plate and the securing arm to lock the securing arm in a desired position. In some cases, the arm may comprise a locking mechanism such that once the arm is moved to the second position the mechanism can releasably lock the arm in place, this prevents the arm from folding down once the fence post is attached. In some cases, the locking mechanism may include a slot along the length of the arm, with the slot receiving a member, that is either part of the base plate or inserted through the base plate. Once the arm is in the second position the user may insert the external member or move the arm relative to the base plate to move the member through the slot, for example by lifting or pushing down the arm relative to the base plate, in either case, the member will lock the securing arm in position preventing the arm from rotating back to the first position. It should be noted that in some cases the weight placed over the base plate may be sufficiently large or positioned in a manner that would prevent the securing arm from folding back to the first position.

[0017] When the securing arm is configured to rotate as described above the rotation allows the arm to be foldable. More specifically, this rotation allows the user to fold down the securing arm by moving the arm into the first position such that the elongated axis of the arm is parallel to the plane of the base, in this configuration, the size of the base foot is minimized allowing more bases to be stored in a given volume, especially as the near-flat profile of the folded base foot would allow the feet to be stacked for ease of storage.

[0018] It is noted that the securing arm may be configured to stand at a position in between the first and second positions, such that the arm extends above the base plate at a nonperpendicular angle. This may be necessary in cases wherein the surface below the base plate is not level, therefore requiring the post to be non-perpendicular relative to the base plate to keep the elongated axis of the post vertical. To this end, the base plate and / or securing arm may comprise a plurality of apertures, wherein the user may pass a suitable member or fastener between a chosen aperture of the plurality of apertures to lock the securing arm in the desired position.

[0019] It is noted that the aft end of the securing arm, this term referring to the end of the securing arm that is not connected to the base plate, is configured to be coupled to the fence post. The aft end of the arm comprises a member or plate with an aperture. In use the post would comprise a corresponding aperture, such that once aligned a fastener may be passed through the aperture in the arm and the aperture in the post to secure the two together. In the preferred embodiment, the aperture in the arm would comprise a slot that extends along the width of the member or plate that is coupled to the post such that the post can be adjusted left or right relative to the base plate and still be coupled to the arm. This is useful as it would allow the user to keep the post vertical even when the surface beneath the fence is not flat as the user can adjust the post left or right while still coupling it to the securing arm. Note that in some cases, the aperture in the post may comprise a bolt nut attached to the surface of the post. In these cases, the fastener used to couple the post and the arm is a bolt, this way the nut on the post grips the bolt preventing the post from sliding along the aperture of the securing arm once the bolt is fastened. It is also noted that the user can use such a bolt to adjust the post forward or backward relative to the securing arm by using bolts of different lengths, with the longer bolts pushing the post further forward. This again allows the position of the post to be adjusted to keep the post vertical relative to the ground even when the surface beneath the post is not level.

[0020] By using a securing arm as described above the user can adjust the position of the arm and post fastened to the arm in multiple directions to allow the user to ensure that the post is always vertical relative to the ground. This prevents the post from leaning which may weaken the fence, or the need for additional components to prevent the post from leaning. It is also noted that the surface under the base feet may have different heights, therefore the user may need to adjust the height of the fence posts to keep the fence panels at a consistent height. To this end, the securing arm may be configured to have an adjustable height, wherein the arm is configured to extend and / or contract vertically relative to the base plate. This may be achieved by using a securing arm that is telescopic or ratcheted, such that the arm can be set to different heights as required by the user. As noted, this may allow the user to adjust the height of the post coupled to the rail such that the fence it is attached to has a consistent height along its entire perimeter. Further, to the securing arm, the base foot may comprise a secondary arm configured to hold the base weights in place over the base plate. The secondary arm is coupled to the base plate in the same manner as the securing arm, wherein the arm is foldable for ease of storage, and can be locked into position with a suitable member or fastener. The difference between the secondary weight arm and the securing arm is that the weight arm is positioned at the end of the base plate remote from the fence post, the weight arm may not comprise any further aperture like the securing arm, as the weight arm is configured to act as a backstop preventing the weights positioned over the base plate from sliding off of the base, this arm also prevents an intruder from sliding the base plate out from under the weights thereby making it more difficult for an intruder to tamper with the fence.

[0021] In use the weight arm can have a variety of designs, with some designs being longer or wider than others, wherein the size of the weight arm may be chosen based on the dimensions of the weight to be used. More specifically, depending on the size of the weight being used to secure the base foot the weight arm may be made taller and / or wider to better grip and support the weights. In some cases, the arm may include a curve, hook, or perpendicular portion configured to hook over the top of the weights to better hold the weights in place further reducing the risk of the weights being removed from the base foot.

[0022] It is noted that the weight arm is also configured to rotate between at least two positions the first position being parallel to the base plate and the second position being perpendicular to the base plate. As with the securing arm, the weight arm can be placed in the first position to reduce the size of the base foot and allow for easier storage as the feet would be relatively flat and therefore easier to stack when stored or in transit. The weight arm can then be placed into the second position to allow the arm to act as a backstop helping to hold the weights used to anchor the foot over the base plate. As with the securing arm, the weight arm and the base plate may include one or more apertures, such that the user may lock the arm into one of the positions by aligning certain apertures in the arm and base and then inserting a suitable fastener or member into the aligned apertures. In some cases, the weight arm may be configured to rotate between a plurality of positions, wherein the arm and or plate would comprise additional apertures for each of the other positions. It is noted that these extra positions may be needed based on the size and shape of the weights being used on the base foot. For example, the arm may need to be set to an angle above 90 degrees if the weight is larger than the base plate, similarly for smaller weights the weight arm may need to be at an angle less than 90 degrees to interface and grip the weights.

[0023] Further, the arm may include an additional locking mechanism, wherein the arm can be actuated to lock into place in the first or second position, for example, the arm may include a slot that receives a member attached to the base plate. In use, the user unfolds the arm into the second position and can then lift the arm or push the arm down to lock the member into part of the slot such that the arm cannot be folded. This locking mechanism can be released by releasing the member, by actuating the arm in the opposite direction, relative to the direction used to lock the mechanism, for example, if the user locks the mechanism by pressing the arm down, they would lift the arm upwards to release the mechanism.

[0024] In some cases, the end of the weight arm remote from the base plat may also include an aperture configured to receive a fastener. More specifically, the weights used with the base foot may include an aperture that can be aligned with the aperture in the base arm. Once aligned the user may insert a suitable member or fastener to secure at least one of the weights to the weight arm allowing the arm to grip the weight more firmly. In cases where the weight arm includes a hook that goes over the weights, this aperture may be positioned on the hook instead of, or in addition to the aperture on the end of the arm. In some cases, the weigh arm may be removable, such that the user can remove the arm to allow the weights holding the base to be slid on or off the base plate as required without the need to lift the weights. This may be useful in cases where the weights are too massive to be lifted safely by the user.

[0025] Another key factor of this invention is that the securing arm and weight arms have different lengths. More specifically, the arms of the claim invention would be configured to have different sizes such that when both arms are folded into the first position, parallel to the base plate, the arms can sit on a single axis. This may be achieved by having the arms overlap so one arm rests on top of the other. In some cases, the lengths of the arms may be configured such that the arms can rest end to end when folded. Note that in these cases, the arms may be telescopic such that the lengths of the arms can be adjusted to achieve this effect. In other cases, the securing arm and weight arm may have different widths such that the narrower arm can be housed within the wider arm when both arms are folded. Note that in these cases, the arms may also have different lengths to allow the narrower arm to fit within the larger arm more easily.

[0026] Regardless of the specific mechanism used, by having the securing arm and the weight arm be configured to fold along the same axis the user further reduces the size of the base foot when both arms are folded. This smaller profile allows the feet to be stacked and stored more easily. Additionally, as the arms will overlap the base plate can be made narrower, further reducing the size of the overall base foot. This again allows the base feet to be stacked and transported more easily especially as more bases can now be stored within the same given volume compared to other designs. By using the base foot as described above a user can construct a fence at a desired location without the need for specialist tools for embedding the fence posts into the surface under the fence. The posts of the fence will instead couple to the base feet which sit on the surface, it is noted that the disclosed base feet would allow the user to position the fence over any surface, as the securing arm can be adjusted in multiple directions to keep the post vertical regardless of the profile of the surface below the fence. Further the specific design of the claimed base foot, provides a base with a reduced size compared to other designs as the arms of the base can be overlapped or laid end-to-end when folded such that the arm lay along the same elongated axis, thereby reducing the overall dimensions of the folded base. This arrangement of the arms also allows the base to use a narrower base plate thereby further reducing the size and weight of the overall base. With these smaller bases, the user will be able to easily stack and transport the foot bases to the desired location for the fence. This is especially useful as numerous bases will be needed to construct a perimeter fence. Additionally, the fence that uses such bases may be are often temporary fences therefore such bases allow these temporary fences to be moved or taken down more easily.

[0027] It is also noted that the claimed invention may be provided as a kit of parts. The kit comprises a foot base, with the necessary fasteners and / or members to construct the base and fasten it to a fence post, and one or more weights used to hold down the base. In some cases, these kits can include a plurality of bases and weights, and may further comprise a suitable tool for attaching / removing the fasteners and members used in the base. In some cases, the kit may also include a suitable fence post configured to be coupled to the claimed base foot.

[0028] Detailed Description

[0029] The claimed invention has been illustrated in the following Figures:

[0030] Figure 1 - Depicts an example base foot with the securing arm and weight arm in the unfolded position.

[0031] Figure 2 - Depicts an example base foot with the securing arm and weight arm in the folded position.

[0032] Figure 3 - Depicts an example of a securing arm used in the claimed base.

[0033] Figure 4 - Depict an example of a weight arm used in the claimed base.

[0034] Figure 5 - Depicts an example base plate used in the claimed base.

[0035] The claimed invention comprises the following features, note that like reference numerals are used to indicate like features:

[0036] 10 - base foot (unfolded configuration)

[0037] 12 - base foot (folded configuration)

[0038] 20 - base plate

[0039] 21 - post guiding feature

[0040] 22 - arm guiding walls

[0041] 23 - support bar

[0042] 24,24’ - arm fastener aperture

[0043] 25, 25’ - locking fastener aperture

[0044] 30 - securing arm

[0045] 31, 3T - securing arm frame

[0046] 32, 32’ - locking fastener aperture

[0047] 33, 33’ - locking mechanism slot

[0048] 34 - securing arm end

[0049] 35 - post fastener slot 40 - securing arm

[0050] 41,41’ - securing arm frame

[0051] 42, 42’ - locking fastener aperture

[0052] 43, 43’ - fastener aperture

[0053] 44 - securing arm end

[0054] The present invention provides a base suitable for use in the construction of a perimeter fence. More specifically, the claimed invention provides a base that can be used as a foot to hold and support a post of the perimeter fence that is coupled to the base. The claimed base foot is configured to fold into a collapsed or folded configuration such that the base’s overall volume is reduced allowing the bases to be stacked and transported more easily.

[0055] Additionally, the bases should be light as the user will likely need to transport many bases to form a fence. To this end, the claimed base comprises a relatively light frame again making the transportation of the bases easier for the user.

[0056] Another aspect of the invention is that a user using the claim base will wish to avoid the need to damage the surface the fence is positioned over. It is noted that with a base foot, the user removes the need to dig a hole in the ground to embed the end of the fence posts. Instead, the post is secured in place by being coupled to the base. However, as the base is relatively light there is a risk of the base falling under the weight of the post or when force is exerted onto the fence. This is why in use the base will comprise a plate that extends from the post, and in use, weights will be positioned over the base to secure the base and by extension the post into place without the need to couple the post or the base to the ground.

[0057] Figure 1 depicts the preferred embodiment of the claimed base (10) in the unfolded configuration, meaning that the figures show the base as it would be configured in use. the claimed base comprises a base plate (20) which comprises a planar base that is placed onto the ground at the location where a fence post is to be installed. As previously mentioned, when the base (10) is in use one or more weights would be positioned over the base plate (20) to secure the base in position. Once secured in position the base plate will act as a foot to the attached fence post anchoring the post in position even when the fence is impacted.

[0058] Though it is not depicted it is noted that the underside of the base plate (20), referring to the side of the base plate (20) in contact with the ground, may preferably comprise a raised pattern, designed to increase the amount of friction between the plate and the ground. It is noted that this design can take different forms, and may require different shapes depending on the type of surface the base is going to be placed over. Regardless of the specific pattern chosen, each pattern will comprise a series of lines or shapes that are raised out of the surface of the plane of the plate towards the ground. The preferred pattern is a tread plate pattern, and known as a checker plate patter, this pattern comprises alternating rows of diagonal threads to help improve the plate’s grip in all directions. This is advantageous as this form of fence can otherwise be slid along the ground by pushing laterally to modify the fence position, which can be an issue particularly in crowd control situations.

[0059] The claimed base further comprises a pair of arms, comprising a securing arm 30 and a weight arm 40. Wherein each of the arms is coupled proximate to opposite ends of the post. The securing arm is used to couple the fence post to the base, wherein the securing arm comprises an aperture at the end of the arm remote from the base plate 20 which is fastened to a respective fence post. Whereas the weight arm 40 is positioned on the opposite side of the base plate 20 and is used as a backstop, helping to hold the weights in place over the base plate 20. More specifically, the weight arm 40 prevents the base plate from sliding out from under the weights used to hold the plate down.

[0060] Both the securing arm 30 and weight arm 40 are configured to pivot around the end of the arm that is coupled to the plate. In particular, both arms would be configured to move between at least two positions. The at least two positions comprise a first position that is parallel to the base plate 20, and a second position that is perpendicular to the base plate 20. It is noted that the arms may be set to other positions by adjusting the angle between each of the arms and the base plate via pivoting the arms 30,40. These additional positions for the arms 30,40 may be used in situations where the ground beneath the base is not level. For example, in a situation where the ground under the base is sloped, the angle of the weight arm and the securing arm may be adjusted such that the arms remain vertical, which means the arms 30,40 will no longer be perpendicular to the base plate 20.

[0061] The depicted example in Figure 1 shows the base foot with both the securing arm 30 and weight arm 40 in the second, perpendicular position. This is the position the arm would be configured into when the base is deployed. When deployed the securing arm would be coupled to a fence post. Further, the weights used to secure the base place are positioned between the arms 30,40 over the base plate 20, such that the arms would prevent the weights from sliding off the plate 20 and the weight would provide additional support to the securing arm, by preventing them from folding back into the parallel position.

[0062] It is noted that in most cases, the base may include a locking mechanism configured to secure the securing arm 30 and weight arm 40 into the desired position. This locking means can take several forms, such as a series of apertures in the base plate 20 and arms 30,40 which the user can lock by inserting a suitable member or fastener into the aligned apertures, a ratcheted mechanism that will releasably lock the arms in place automatically when the arm 30,40 is pivoted, or an actuated locking mechanism wherein the user actuate the arms in a particular manner once the arm is in position to lock it into place, such as by lifting the arm away from the plate 20 or pressing down towards the plate 20 to lock the arm in the desired position.

[0063] Figure 2 depicts the same example base as Figure 1 , except in this example the securing arm 30 and weight arm 40 are folded into the first position where they are parallel with the base plate 20. This configuration would be used when the base is not in use. more specifically, this configuration is used to reduce the overall volume of the base such that the base can be more easily stored and transported. Additionally, as the arms 30, 40 and the base plate 20 are all parallel in this configuration the base can be more easily stacked when folded into this configuration allowing the bases to be transported more easily between sites. This configuration would allow more bases to be stored within a given volume thereby making the task of storing and transporting the bases around a desired area or to different fence sites easier for the user. It is noted that the locking mechanism described above may also be used to lock the arms 30,40 into this folded position. This locking would ensure that neither of the arms unfolds while the base is in transit, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the arms when the bases are being transported to the desired location.

[0064] Figures 3 to 5 depict the parts of the claimed base in more detail. Figure 3 provides an example of the securing arm 30. In the depicted example the securing arm comprises a frame made of two frame legs 31 ,3T with a bar 34 or handle coupling one end of the leg to the corresponding end of the opposite leg. In use, the end of the legs remote from the bar 34 would be coupled to the base plate 20. In the depicted example we can see that the aft ends of the legs include apertures 32,32’ and slots 33,33’, these allow the legs 31, 3T to be coupled to the base plate 20 with a suitable fastener or member and also form part of the locking mechanism described above. In particular, the depicted arm comprises a round aperture 32,32’ that will receive a member as part of the locking mechanism and slots 33,33’ that will be used to fasten the arm to the base plate 20. In use, the user would align the slot 33 at the bottom of the arm’s frame with a corresponding aperture 24 on the base plate 20. Once aligned the user can insert a suitable fastener such as a bolt through the aligned aperture and slot, thereby fastening the securing arm 30 to the base plate 20. Please note, that the bolt would be fastened such that the arm 30 can still pivot around the fastener, and the arm can move vertically such that the fastener slides along the slot 33. The user is therefore able to secure the arm 30 into one of the parallel or perpendicular positions by sliding the arm up or down, such that the fastener moves to the end of the slot 33 thereby preventing the arm from pivoting around the fastener. It is noted that the slot 30 may have different shapes which may include notches that can be used to hold the fastener to prevent the arm moving when actuated in a certain direction.

[0065] The user can then lock the arm firmly into the desired position using the round aperture 32. More specifically, the base plate can have a corresponding locking aperture 25 for each of the positions the arm 30 can be locked into. In use, the user can then align the aperture 32 in the arm frame 31 with the corresponding aperture 25 for the desired position. Once aligned the user can insert a suitable member or another fastener through the aligned apertures to lock the arm 30 into that position. As previously noted there may be further apertures compared to the one shown in either the arm and / or the base plate to allow the arm to be locked into more positions. In particular, these additional positions allow the arm to be locked at different angles relative to the base plate 20 so that the securing arm 30 is vertically upright, parallel to the fence the base is coupled to, even when the base plate 20 and ground below the plate is not level.

[0066] The other key feature of the securing arm 30 is the horizontal bar 34 at the remote end of the securing arm frame 31, 3T. This bar 34 is coupled to the fence post to secure the post to the base 10, and thereby allow the arm 30 to support the fence post, even when the fence is impacted. The bar 34 in the depicted example comprises a slot-shaped aperture 35, this aperture is configured to receive a fastener that will be used to couple the securing arm 30 to a corresponding fence post. It is noted that the aperture 35 can take other shapes, however, a slot as shown in the figure is preferable as this shape allows the user to move the post horizontally relative to the base 10. This provides the user with another means of adjusting the position of the post relative to the base plate 20, in combination with pivoting the arm relative to the base. With this, the user can ensure the fence post is vertical before securing the post in place by tightening the fastener. In the preferred embodiment, the post coupled to the base would include a bolt nut welded to the surface of the post, such that the user can fasten the post to the arm by inserting a bolt through the slot aperture 35 into the bolt nut. It is also noted that in these cases, the user may be able to adjust the post forward relative to the base by changing the length of the bolt used to attach the bolt.

[0067] Note that in the depicted example the bar 34 includes apertures on the sides. These apertures are used to lock the arm in the parallel position as these apertures will align with the locking apertures 25’ on the far side of the base plate 20 when the arm 30 is folded.

[0068] Though not depicted in the example in the figure, it is noted that the frame of the securing arm 30 may have an adjustable height, such that the height of the bar 34 at the aft end of the securing arm 30 can be adjusted vertically. This may be achieved by using frames where the legs 31 ,3T of the frame are telescopic. This would allow the user to adjust the length of the arm to match the requirement of the post, allowing the same base 10 to be used for a wider range of posts.

[0069] It is noted that in the depicted example the frame of the securing arm 30 comprises a pair of legs 31, 3T instead of being solid. This reduces the mass of the securing arm 30 allowing the user to more easily lift the arm when folding and unfolding the arm. This frame also reduces the overall mass of the base, again making the base easier to store and transport.

[0070] Figure 4 depicts an example of the weight arm 40. In this case, the weight arm 40 is similar to the securing arm 30, comprising a frame with two legs 41, 4T coupled together with a horizontal bar 44 positioned at the aft end of the legs 41, 4T remote from the base plate 20. As with the securing arm 30, this design helps to minimize the mass of the base 10, while still ensuring that the arm has sufficient strength when used. Note that in use the weight arm 40 is configured to help hold the weights over the base plate 20 in position by acting as a backstop, thereby preventing the weights from sliding backward off the plate 20. It is noted that the weight arm 40 may have various designs to better suit the type of weights being used such as a taller or wider arm depending on the profile of the of the weights. It is also noted that in some cases, the weight arm 40 may include features that are configured to grip, or otherwise couple at least one of the weights over the base plate to the weight arm 40, this may include one or more hooks that go over the weights or an aperture configured to receive a suitable member or fastener to couple the weight arm 40 to at least one of the weights.

[0071] It is also noted that the base of the weight arm frame comprises apertures 42,42’43,43’ configured to be used to secure the weight arm 40 to the base plate 20, and to lock the weight arm 40 into a desired position. In use the weight arm 40 should comprise at least two apertures, or a pair of apertures. The first aperture, or pair of apertures are securing apertures 43,43’ used to couple the weight arm 40 to the base plate 20. This securing aperture 43,43’ is aligned with a corresponding aperture 24’ on the base plate 20, before being secured in place by passing a fastener through the aligned apertures. As with the securing arm 30, the fastener is configured such that the weight arm 40 can pivot about the fastener allowing the arm to move between different angles relative to the base plate 20. The second aperture or pair of apertures comprises a locking aperture 42,42’, these apertures are configured to allow the user to lock the weight arm 40 into a desired position relative to the base plate 20. As with the securing arm 20, the base plate 20 would comprise one or more corresponding apertures 25’ that can be aligned with the locking apertures 42.42’ of the weight arm 40, with the base having one such aperture for each position the arm may be locked into. In use, the user would pivot the weight arm 40 until it reaches the desired position. Once in position, the locking aperture 42,42’ of the arm will align with a corresponding aperture for that position, the user may then lock the arm 40 in place by passing a suitable member or fastener through the aligned apertures to releasably lock the weight arm 40.

[0072] Note that in the depicted example both the securing aperture 43,43’ and the locking aperture 42,42’ comprise a round aperture. However, it is noted that, in some cases, the apertures may comprise different shapes. In particular, the securing aperture may comprise a slot like the one shown in Figure 3, to provide the weight arm with an actuating locking system. As previously noted, this type of system would allow the user to lock the weight arm 40 into a desired position by actuating the arm in a predetermined motion to prevent the arm from further pivoting about the securing aperture, until the locking mechanism is released by actuating the arm in a different predetermined manner. Such a locking mechanism may be used instead of the locking aperture described above, or in addition to it, as the actuating locking member would provide the user with a means of holding the arm in place as they insert the member or fastener to lock the arm in place more firmly.

[0073] Also note that in the depicted example shown in Figure 2, because the securing arm 30 rests over the weight arm 40 when in the parallel position, the same locking aperture 25’ used to lock the weight arm 40 in the perpendicular position is used to lock the securing arm 30 into the parallel position by inserting the removable member into the aperture in the side of the horizontal bar 34 of the securing arm 30. Further, as the arms overlap there is no need to secure the weight arm 40 in the parallel position as it will be held in place between the base plate 20 and the locked securing arm 30. However, in other cases, there may be additional apertures within the weight arm 40 and the base plate 20 to lock the weight arm in the parallel position.

[0074] Further, it is noted that the weight arm 40 may be configured such that the arm can be detached. More specifically, the weight arm 40 may be configured to be easily detected from the base plate 20, for example by actuating or rotating the arm, and can then be reattached using a similar motion to actuate the weight arm 40 back into its initial position. This mechanism may be used to remove the weight arm 40 allowing the user to more easily slide one or more weights onto the base plate 20, without the need to lift weights off of the ground, once in position the user can then reattach the weight arm 40 to hold the weights in place. The user can then repeat the process of removing and reattaching the weight arm 40 when taking the weights back off of the base plate 20. This may be achieved by simply removing the securing fasteners; however, it may be tedious to do this for every base at the fence site, additionally, the user may not be able to access the fasteners when the weights are in place. Meaning a means to remove the arm through actuating may be preferable. For example, the frame of the weight arms 40 may comprise hooks or open apertures, which go around the securing fastener such that the user can rotate the arm to a specific angle, preferably more than 90 degrees such that the open side of the hook, or aperture is below the fastener, then the user can simply lift the arm removing it from the base plate. In other cases, the weight arm 40 may comprise a frame with one or more buttons or latches which can be used to detach part of the frame, thereby allowing most of the frame to be removed without opening the aperture. Lastly, the frame of the weight arm 40 may be configured to compress sideward, such that the user can compress the frame to have it release the fasteners or members coupling it to the base plate 20, it can then be reattached by releasing this compression.

[0075] It is also noted that the specific weight arm 40 shown in Figure 4 comprises a slope at the base of the frame. It is noted that this slope is positioned at the base of the legs 41,41’ of the frame and is configured to receive the bar 34 of the securing arm 30 when both arms are folded into the parallel position. This ensured that the weight arm 40 did not obstruct the securing arm 30 when both arms were folded, especially as the arms are configured to overlap when both arms are in the parallel position, as can be seen in Figure 2. This design helps to further reduce the overall size of the base plate 20, as the overlapping of the arms 30,40 allows the base plate to be narrower while still having sufficient space to be coupled to each of the arms, thereby reducing the size of each base allowing them to be stored more easily. This also reduces the overall mass of the base plate 20 allowing the user to transport the bases more easily. Lastly, the more overlapping arms make the shape of the folded base flatter allowing the bases to be stacked again making it easier for a user to store and transport the bases. However, it should be noted that this may not be needed in other designs wherein the arms are configured to be coaxial when folded. In these cases, the securing arm and weight arm may be configured such that one arm is wider than the other such that, when folded, the narrower arm sits within the wider arm. In other cases, the arms may be height adjustable, such as by having the frames of the arm be telescopic, so that the user may shorten the arms before folding thereby allowing the arm to rest adjacent, end-to- end over the base plate 20 when folded into the parallel position. This configuration would further reduce the size of the folded base thereby providing the same benefits as described above.

[0076] Figure 5 provides an example of the base plate 20 used in the preferred embodiment of the claimed base foot. As previously noted, the base plate 20 would be positioned in a desired area with weights over the plate 20 to hold it in position. The securing arm 30 and weight arm 40 are then coupled to the top of the plate 20 in a manner that can be rotated between the vertical and horizontal positions. Note that in the depicted example the top of the base plate comprises a pair of guiding walls 22. These guiding walls 22 comprise the securing and locking apertures 24, 24’, 25, 25’ used to couple the arms to the base plate 20 and to lock the arms into position. The walls 22 also assist in guiding the arms when they are rotated between positions, ensuring that the frames of the arms do not become misaligned when actuated. It is also noted that these guiding walls 22 may also be used to guide the weights placed over the plate 20 and to prevent the weight from sliding sideways off of the plate. More specifically, the bottom of the weights may include slots or rails that the guiding walls may be inserted into, to hold the weight in place over the plate 20. It is noted that in these cases, the top of the weights may include guiding walls similar to the base plate 20, such that the weights can be stacked without the risk of the weights sliding off each other.

[0077] Further, the front end of the plate, proximate to the securing arm 30, may also include a guiding feature 21. This guiding feature comprises a solid shape that rises out of the plain of the plate 20, wherein the shape is configured to guide the fence post into position over the plate 20 before being secured into place. These guiding features 21 can comprise different shapes to complement the shape of the specific posts being used, though it is noted that the most preferable shape comprises a cylindrical peg like the one depicted in the example, as this shape rests against the sides of the post while also allowing the user to rotate the post relative to the plate without being removed from the guiding feature 21. It is noted that the plate may comprise more than one of these features, for example, there may be one on each side of the post to help hold the post more firmly in position. In other cases, the plurality of guiding features may be used so that there are different features for different post profiles or to hold the post in different positions relative to the plate. However, as previously noted a cylindrical feature would be compatible with different post shapes and would allow the posts to be rotated into different positions without the need for additional features.

[0078] It is also noted that the depicted example further comprises a guiding wall or bar 21 on the base of the plate 20 in between the guiding wall 22. These horizontal walls 21 help to hold the securing arm 30 and weight arm 40 when folded to be parallel to the base plate 20. These walls act to cushion the arms and to help hold the arm at a desired height so that the locking apertures align to secure the arms in this position. This makes the task of folding the base down easier for the user. Further, the horizontal walls can reduce wear on both the base plate and the folded arms.

[0079] Lastly, it is noted that the base plate may include a plurality of apertures, like those shown in the corner of the depicted plate. These apertures are configured to receive fasteners to further secure the base plate 20 or the weights upon the plate 20 depending on the direction the fastener is inserted into the plate. For example, the fasteners may be inserted downwards to secure the plate to a further base, or the surface below the plate.

[0080] Alternatively, the fasteners may be inserted upwards through the base plate 20, and the weights placed upon it to secure the weights to the base plate 20.

[0081] By using a base as described above the user is provided with a rapidly deployable universal foot that can be coupled to a wide range of fence posts to construct perimeter fences more easily. Additionally, the claimed base provides features that allow the post to be adjusted relative to the base allowing the post to remain vertical even when the surface below the plate is not level. Lastly, the design of the base plate 20 and the attached arms 30,40, allow the base to be folded into a flattened state that will allow the bases to be stacked easily allowing the user to store and transport the bases more easily. Additionally, the arrangement of the arms 30,40, when folded further reduces the size of the base, allowing more bases to be stored within a given volume.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 18 June 2025 (18.06.2025)1. A base configured to be used as the base for a fence post, the base comprising:A base plate (20) comprising a planar surface configured to receive one or more suitable weights;A securing arm (30) coupled to the base plate (20) proximate a first end of the base plate and which is configured to pivot around the end of the arm (30) coupled to the base plate (30) with the arm (30) being configured to pivot between at least two positions; a first position parallel to the base plate (20) and a second position, for securing a fence post, perpendicular to, and raised relative to the base plate (20), and wherein the second end (34) of the arm (30) remote from the base (20) comprises an aperture (35) configured to receive a fastener for coupling the securing arm (30) to a fence post, wherein the aperture preferably comprises a slot with an elongate axis that is perpendicular to the elongate axis of the attached fence post, such that the post may be adjusted horizontally relative to the base, to ensure the post is vertical when being fastened to the securing arm (30);A weight arm (40) coupled to the base plate (20) proximate a second end of the base plate (20), which is opposite to the first end of the base plate (20), wherein the weight arm (40) is configured to pivot around the end of the arm (40) coupled to the base plate (20) with the arm (40) being configured to pivot between at least two positions; a first position parallel to the base plate (20) and a second position perpendicular to, and raised relative to the base plate (20); wherein the base plate (20) and each of the securing arm (30) and weight arm (40) comprises at least one locking aperture (32, 42), wherein these apertures (32, 42) are configured to lock a respective arm (30, 40) into a desired position by aligning the aperture (32, 42) in the arm (30, 40) with a respective aperture in the base and inserting a fastener or member into the aligned apertures; and wherein the securing arm (30) and the weight arm (40) are coaxial when folded into the first position.

2. The base of any preceding claim wherein the first end of the base plate (20) comprises a post guiding feature (21), wherein the feature (21) comprises a structure that is raised from the upper surface of the plate (20) and is configured to guide the fence post into a position where it may be coupled to the securing arm (30).

233. The base of any preceding claim, wherein the base plate (20) comprises one or more fastener apertures, configured to receive a fastener to couple the plate (20) to the ground, or the weight placed over the plate (20).

4. The base of any preceding claim wherein the securing arm (30) and the weight arm (40) are configured to lie end-to-end when both arms (30,40) are folded into the first position.

5. The base of claims 1 to 4, wherein the securing arm (30) and weight arm (40) are configured to be different widths, such that the narrower arm rests within the wider arm when both arms (30,40) are folded into the first position.

6. The base of any preceding claim wherein the securing arm (30) and weight arm (40) are configured to pivot between a plurality of positions, with the base plate (20) comprising a respective locking aperture (25) for each position in the plurality of positions.

7. The base of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the securing arm (30) and / or weight arm (40) are telescopic, such that the height of the arm or arms (30,40) can be adjusted.

8. The base of any preceding claim wherein at least one of the securing arm (30) and / or weight arm (40) comprises a locking mechanism, wherein the arm (30,40) can be releasably locked within the first or second position by actuating the arm (30,40) in a specific direction, such as lifting the arm or pressing it down.

9. The base of any preceding claim, wherein the weight arm (40) further comprises a hook, configured to grip the weights placed over the base plate (20).

10. The base of any preceding claim, wherein the weight arm (40) further comprises one or more apertures configured to receive a fastener to couple the arm (40) to one or more of the weights placed over the base plate (20).

11. The base of any preceding claim wherein the weight arm (40) is attachable and detachable.

12. A method of using the base plate of claims 1 to 11 , the method comprising: placing the base at a desired location on the ground; folding the securing arm (30) and weight arm (40) into the second position such that the arms are raised relative to the plate (20); locking the securing arm (30) and weight arm (40) in place with a suitable fastener or member; securing the base plate (20) by placing one or more weights over the base plate (20); positioning a fence post in front of the securing arm (30), adjusting the post horizontally along the aperture slot (35) of the securing arm (30) to ensure the post is vertical; coupling the end of the securing arm (34) remote from the base plate (20) to a fence post; repeating the step above for a plurality of bases.

13. The method of claim 12 further comprises the step of guiding the post into place using the guiding feature (21) before coupling the post to the securing arm (30).

14. The method of claim 12 or 13, further comprising the step of adjusting the position of the securing arm (30) by pivoting the arm (30) forward or backwards, to ensure that the post coupled to the securing arm (30) remains vertical after being coupled to the base.

15. The method of claims 12 to 14, further comprising the step of fastening the base plate (20) and / or the weight arm (40) to the weights placed over the base plate (20), via a suitable fastener.

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